Trail Tips & Suggestions

KEN’S FAVORITE HIKES ON THE PALMETTO TRAIL

1. Check out Molly’s bluffs on the Wateree passage
I like this 9-mile segment adjacent to the Wateree River swamp in Sumter County because, it’s close to where I live and offers some spectacular views of the midlands. Pay special attention to the high bluffs and the view toward Columbia.

2. The Awendaw’s the place for romance.
If you are trying to impress someone, the Awendaw Passage offers some very romantic views. It is also the coastal terminus of the Palmetto Trail, and you can claim you reached the end. A canoe launch for Awendaw Creek is at the end of Rosa Green Road.

3. It’s a big drop on the Blue Wall
Be careful when hiking Poinsett/Blue Wall Passages because they offer a very steep ascent through The Nature Conservancy’s Blue Wall Preserve. A loop trail near takes hikers to a lovely waterfall that drops 20-30 feet.

4. Find the Advance America Bridge at Croft.
The Palmetto Trail through historic Croft State Natural Area connects the city of Spartanburg to the Glenn Springs area. The 12.6-mile trail features a spectacular bridge over Fairforest Creek.

5. See S.C.’s in land beach on the Lake Moultrie Passage
This 24-mile passage is flat, scenic one of the most popular trails, especially with mountain bikers. The trail rings Lake Moultrie’s eastern and northern shores on the lake’s dikes.